In a Soviet-dominated alternate America, vegetable shop manager Charlie Simpkins sparks a cascade of consequences for himself and his family when he quietly refuses to display a propaganda poster, exposing the dangers of even minor dissent in a totalitarian regime. The novel explores the personal costs of resistance, the complexities of conformity, and the fragile hope that can persist under oppression.

Reader Review Summary

Set in an alternate history where the Soviet Union has triumphed and the United States has been divided into communist 'People’s Republics,' the novel follows Charlie Simpkins, a vegetable shop manager in the San Fernando Valley of the West Coast People’s Democratic Republic. The story begins with a seemingly minor act of defiance: Charlie refuses to display a propaganda poster in his shop window, an action that triggers a series of escalating consequences for him and his family. The narrative explores the daily realities of life under an oppressive regime, focusing on the impact of totalitarianism on ordinary citizens rather than political elites. The setting is characterized by constant surveillance, enforced conformity, and the subtle and overt pressures of living under a dictatorship, with the broader world dominated by the USSR and other communist states.

Readers appreciated the book’s detailed portrayal of everyday life under a repressive regime, noting the blend of mundane routines with the underlying tension and fear. The protagonist’s ordinary background and relatable struggles resonated with many, as did the focus on how large political events affect average people. Several reviewers highlighted the author’s engaging narrative style, the believable and well-drawn characters, and the inclusion of humor amidst the bleakness. The book’s exploration of resistance, both small and large, and its parallels to real-world political situations were also noted as strengths. Some readers found hope in the story’s conclusion, while others were drawn in by the suspense and the depiction of family dynamics under stress.

Some readers expressed disappointment with the lack of detailed world-building, particularly regarding the broader geopolitical context and the timeline of the communist takeover. There were comments about the story feeling too short or the ending being predictable, especially for those familiar with historical patterns. A few reviewers wanted a stronger or more definitive conclusion, and some felt that the book did not fully explore the potential for change or resistance within the society. The prevalence of smoking and drinking among characters was also noted as a negative aspect by one reviewer.

The book is scheduled for publication in July 2025 and has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 50 readers, with 9 full reviews. It is categorized as alternate history, fiction, and science fiction, and is authored by Harry Turtledove. Several reviewers mentioned reading advance copies and expressed interest in potential sequels or further exploration of the world and characters introduced in this novel.